Knee Pain Doctor
Recovering from a knee surgery or an injury takes time and dedication, but the key is working with a knowledgeable physical therapist who can guide you through the rehabilitation process. However, there are over 233,000 physical therapists registered across the United States, so how do you know which one is right for you? Here are the most important questions to consider before working with a physical therapist.
Are They Licensed?
Look for a licensed physical therapist. Before they can examine, diagnose and treat ailments, all physical therapists must earn a degree from an accredited physical therapy program before taking the National Physical Therapy Examination. Physical therapy assistants are also certified professionals with the qualifications to provide care under the supervision of a physical therapist.
Do You Get Along?
Rehabilitation can be a long, painful journey, so you must trust your physical therapist and feel comfortable working with him or her, as a knee pain doctor from a local center such as Premier Osteoarthritis Centers of Pennsylvania can explain. You should have open communication where you can discuss how you feel about your treatment.
Do They Have Good Reviews?
Look online for patient reviews of the therapist you’re interested in. Search for common themes in the reviews to gauge whether the therapist is right for you, and pay attention to what past patients say about the clinic as a whole. Reviewers may love the therapist but have significant issues with the clinic staff that can taint their overall experience.
What Is the Facility Atmosphere Like?
Before starting physical therapy, make an appointment to tour the facility. This is a common practice among reputable clinics. While on the tour, look for the following:
- Do therapists or assistants wipe down equipment between patients?
- When patients perform exercises, do therapists pay attention to the patient’s technique or seem more focused on talking to staff?
- Do therapists treat more than one patient at a time?
Are They Available?
The right physical therapist for you should fit you into the schedule promptly. If you have to wait several weeks for an appointment, you should consider finding a different therapist so that you don’t delay treatment. This is especially important if you’re recovering from surgery.
When you’re trying to heal from surgery or an injury, you need an experienced professional guiding you through the rehabilitation process. Take the time you need to do your research, then when you believe you’ve found the right physical therapist, contact him or her without delay so you can start on a path without pain. You can also ask your knee pain doctor for recommendation of a physical therapist.
